Stories of Independence
Adam & Laker
Adam was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. He had a dream of playing sled hockey which he not only fulfilled but has gone on to win three gold medals in the sport. Now he has Canine Companions Service Dog Laker by his side to help with practical tasks like opening doors, picking up dropped pucks and carrying small gym bags. “Laker loves sports, and he and I have already created an amazing bond,” says Adam. “It’s incredible how these dogs are making a difference in our lives.”
Sawyer & Biddy
Ask 10-year-old Sawyer about his helpful sidekick Biddy, and you’ll learn just how much difference an expertly trained Canine Companions service dog can make in a child’s life. Sawyer has spastic quadriplegia, which impacts his coordination, muscle tone and ability to perform several daily tasks. Sawyer gets help from Service Dog Biddy as she has been trained to retrieve books, pick up dropped pencils, open doors and so much more! “Having Biddy by his side takes the focus off Sawyer’s disability and wheelchair, increasing social interaction with other children,” says Sawyers’ dad, Anthony. “She has given Sawyer confidence, loyal friendship and unconditional love.”
Rachel & Genevieve
Rachel grew up in a world without sound. She wore hearing aids, but her access to people and spoken language around her was limited until she received additional assistance from a cochlear implant at age 7. This device has improved Rachel’s ability to communicate and hear; however, it’s not perfect. When she takes the device off, her world goes silent again. Rachel reached out to Canine Companions for assistance and received Service Dog Genevieve entirely free of charge. Each year, hundreds of people apply for life changing service dogs for deafness. Canine Companions is here to help – but we can’t do it without you. “Genevieve makes me feel much more independent and safer,” Rachel shares.
Thanks to donors like you, our mission can continue.
Canine Companions leads the way so people with disabilities and their service dogs can live with greater independence, confidence and joy!
Your support will help provide expertly trained service dogs to children, adults and veterans with disabilities. Give the gift of independence – donate today!